Hunting: Black bear

The 2010 fall bear season again looks promising for hunters throughout New Hampshire.  September 1 marks the start of the bear hunting season in the state.  Bears may be hunted over bait, by stalking or with hounds (see season dates table below or refer to the 2010-2011 N.H. Hunting Digest, published in mid-August, for specific season dates for the method and area of the state you plan to hunt). 

The statewide bear population appears to remain relatively stable, estimated at about 4,800 animals.  The population is strong throughout the state and abundant hunting opportunities exist in most areas.  Bear densities are relatively consistent with population management objectives in all of the state's six bear management regions.

During the 2009 season, hunters took 755 bears in New Hampshire.  The 2009 harvest was 50% above the preceding 5-year average of 504 bears. Hunters typically harvest 8-10% (400-500 bears) of the state's bear population.

For more information, the NH Hunting Digest (click here and on the publication cover).

• Skip to 2010 season dates
• New! 2010 bear season outlook, by Bear Biologist Andrew Timmins
  
• Regional bear density
• Bear harvest data by region and method
• Annual bear harvest comparison
  
• Bear baiting permit application process
• Maps of Wildlife Management Units
• Bear dog hunting and training reciprocity list by state
• Click to download a printable BEAR TAG! (PDF) If possible, please use this instead of the back cover of the NH Hunting Digest. Thanks.

2010 Bear Season Dates

N.H. bear density estimates and 2009 harvest distribution:

2009 N.H. Bear Harvest Tally, Compared to Previous 8 Years

An abundance of additional detailed harvest information is available in the N.H. Wildlife Harvest Summary -- click here and on the publication cover at right.

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